Dentists focus on preventative care since preventing dental problems is more affordable and far healthier for their patients than treating them. Once teeth or gums are diseased or damaged, they can hardly ever be fully restored to health. In other words, the damage is typically permanent, and the dentist must try to restore as much function and aesthetics as possible to the patient.
Dental exams are considered preventative dentistry. While the American Dental Association recommends biannual dental exams for most people, smokers, pregnant women and people with some health issues or a history of certain dental problems often need to have more frequent dental checkups. Your dentist will completely examine your teeth, gums, bite and other oral structures for symptoms of disease or damage during your dental exam.
Dental bite-wing X-rays will be taken once a year, and full-mouth X-rays will often be taken every three years. These X-rays allow your dentist to see structures that are not visible to the naked eye and check for decay between the teeth or below the gumline. After your exam, your dentist may recommend some treatments, especially if your dentist noticed any loose or damaged dental fillings, any missing teeth, symptoms of gum disease, mouth sores, dental decay or other dental health problems. These treatments may be designed to restore, enhance or maintain your dental health.
Professional cleanings also play an important role in preventative dentistry. Even if you brush and floss your teeth religiously, you can still miss spots where plaque can mineralize into tartar and risk your dental health. Professional cleanings remove any accumulation and polish away superficial stains and leave your teeth shining. Your dentist or dental hygienist may make recommendations that can help you enhance your dental hygiene and keep your teeth cleaner and healthier.
After your teeth have been examined and completely cleaned, your dentist may recommend other preventative measures that can help you keep your teeth in healthier shape. Fluoride treatments are one of the more common treatments. Fluoride is a mineral that helps keep teeth strong and healthy. After your teeth have been examined and completely cleaned, your dentist may recommend other preventative measures that can help you keep your teeth in tip-top shape. Fluoride treatments are one of the more common treatments. Fluoride is a mineral that helps keep teeth strong and healthy. An ingredient in many types of toothpaste, fluoride can also be applied in gel or varnish form at your dentist's office to further strengthen your teeth against cavities. Dental sealants are another option. Children and those with a history of cavities are good candidates for dental sealants, which painted directly onto the chewing surfaces of teeth to make them more resistant to plaque and bacteria.
Author Resource:
Dr. Ghasri, cosmetic dentist Beverly Hills can provide you with more information. cosmetic dentist Beverly Hills about preventive dentistry practices here.